Pubdate: Fri, 19 Dec 2003 Source: Winnipeg Sun (CN MB) Copyright: 2003 Canoe Limited Partnership Contact: http://www.fyiwinnipeg.com/winsun.shtml Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/503 Author: Bill Rodgers MARTIN MULLS POT-LAW MESS Hints Wife Made Hash-Laced Brownies OTTAWA -- The prime minister was never a pothead but he admits to nibbling on a hash brownie or two in his youth. Paul Martin, in a year-end interview with CTV, was asked whether he ever smoked marijuana. "I never smoked anything," said the PM. But he did say his wife Sheila once baked some tasty brownies. "I will tell you that there was an earlier time many years ago when Sheila made brownies and I must say they did have a strange taste." In several wide-ranging television interviews yesterday, Martin vowed to reintroduce a Chretien government bill that would decriminalize possession of small amounts of pot. The issue has become an irritant in Canada-U.S. relations. "I think it's important to make clear to the Americans that we are not talking about legalization and that there are going to be heavy fines (based on quantity) and we're going to go after the grow-ops. We're going to go after those who distribute it." The PM reiterated that he doesn't think somebody should have a criminal record for possessing a tiny quantity of marijuana. Martin also waded into the controversial issue of same-sex marriage, saying his support is based on court rulings that are based on the Charter of Rights and Freedoms. But he declared that all sides would be heard. "People are entitled to have a national debate," he said. The PM said there would be a vote and MPs won't be bound by party discipline. "It's certainly going to be a free vote. Absolutely." Also yesterday, Martin said he doesn't believe Saddam Hussein should face capital punishment and feels the deposed Iraqi dictator's trial should include international involvement. "I personally do not believe in the death penalty," Martin told CHUM television. - --- MAP posted-by: Perry Stripling